CN102712004A - Apparatus and methods for dispensing fluids - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for dispensing a fluid. The fluid is received in an opening of a body, and at least some of the fluid is dispensed into a first conduit that communicates with a first outlet of a first discharge component connected to the body. Upon connection and disconnection of a second discharge component, at least some of the fluid received in the opening is selectively dispensed into a second conduit that communicates with a second outlet of a second discharge component that can be connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge component.

Description

Apparatus and methods for dispensing fluids

Background of the invention

1. Technical field

The present invention relates generally to dispensing fluids, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for dispensing fluids.

2. Description of related technologies

A device for dispensing fluid (eg, a showerhead) may receive fluid and dispense fluid from a fluid dispensing port for various purposes (eg, body cleansing). However, some known body cleansing devices only have a fixed size fluid dispensing end, and thus are not easily adapted for specific cleansing functions (eg, cleaning the bore). While other known fluid dispensing devices do include differently sized selectable fluid dispensing ends, these known devices do not have a simple mechanism for providing these differently sized selectable fluid dispensing ends. Other known fluid dispensing devices also only provide a single fluid flow rate that cannot be automatically varied based on the selected size of the fluid dispensing tip. Thus, these devices disadvantageously provide, for example, too little fluid flow for general body cleansing, or unsuitably high flow rates for cleaning the internal bore.

Contents of the invention

According to one aspect of the invention, a method for dispensing fluid is provided. The method comprises: receiving fluid in an opening of a body; distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into a first conduit connected to a first outlet of a first discharge member connected to the body communicating with; and selectively distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into a second conduit connected to a second discharge member connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member The second exit is connected. Selectively distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into the second conduit includes controlling fluid to pass through the third conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member A third conduit communicates with the opening and communicates with the second conduit. The flow of fluid through the third conduit is controlled according to the connection and disconnection of the second discharge member from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, such that when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member Fluid is allowed to pass through the third conduit when at least one is connected and fluid is prevented from passing through the third conduit when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and the first discharge member. The method also includes dispensing at least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit into the second conduit when the second discharge component is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge component.

Controlling the flow of fluid through the third conduit may include positioning a valve in an open position when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, in which the valve The valve seat is spaced from the third conduit to allow fluid to pass through the third conduit; and when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, positioning the valve in the closed position, at In the closed position, the valve seat contacts a surface surrounding the third conduit to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit.

Positioning the valve in the open position may include transmitting a force from the second discharge member to the valve.

Transmitting force from the second discharge member to the valve may include transferring force from the second discharge member to an adjacent second discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. parts of the valve head of the valve.

Positioning the valve in the closed position may include resiliently urging the valve seat against a surface surrounding the third conduit.

The method may further include locking a second discharge member to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. .

The method may also include connecting the body to a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the fluid source.

According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for dispensing fluid is provided. The device includes: a main body, which has an opening for receiving fluid; a first discharge member, which is connected to the main body, and has a first outlet and a first conduit communicating with the first outlet; means for distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into the first conduit; a second discharge member connectable and detachable from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member and having a second outlet and a second discharge member a second conduit in communication with the outlet; and means for selectively controlling flow of at least some of the fluid received in said opening to the second conduit. The means for selectively controlling flow includes a third conduit communicating with the opening and with the first discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. The two conduits are connected. The flow of fluid through the third conduit is controlled according to the connection and disconnection of the second discharge member from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, such that when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member Fluid is allowed to pass through the third conduit when at least one is connected and fluid is prevented from passing through the third conduit when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and the first discharge member. The apparatus also includes means for dispensing at least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit into the second conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member.

The means for selectively controlling may include a valve having a valve seat and positionable in an open position and a closed position, in the open position the valve seat is spaced apart from the third conduit to fluid is allowed to pass through the third conduit, and in the closed position, the valve seat is in contact with the surface around the third conduit to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit; when the second discharge member is in contact with the main body and the first discharge member means for positioning said valve in said open position when at least one of said main body and first discharge member is connected; means for positioning the valve in the closed position.

Said means for positioning said valve in said open position may comprise means for transmitting force from a second discharge member to said valve.

The valve may have a valve head abutting the second discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, and for transmitting force from the second discharge member to the first discharge member. The valve means may comprise means for transmitting force from the second discharge member to the valve head of the valve.

Said means for positioning said valve in said closed position may comprise: for elastically pushing said valve seat on a surface around a third conduit and when the second discharge member is in contact with said body and first and means for positioning said valve in said closed position when at least one of the discharge members is disengaged.

The apparatus may further include: for locking the second discharge member to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. on the device.

The apparatus may further comprise means for connecting the body to a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the fluid source.

According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for dispensing fluid is provided. The device includes: a body having an opening for receiving fluid; a first discharge member connected to the body and having a first outlet and a first conduit communicating with the first outlet; a fluid dispenser that can operatively configured to distribute at least some of the fluid received in the opening into the first conduit; a second discharge member connectable and detachable from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, and having a first Two outlets and a second conduit communicating with the second outlet. The second discharge member is operably configured to receive at least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. The apparatus also includes a flow controller that selectively controls flow of at least some of the fluid received in the opening to a second conduit, the flow controller defining a third conduit when the second discharge A third conduit communicates with the opening and communicates with the second conduit when the component is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge component. The flow controller includes a valve that cooperates with the third conduit and is controlled according to the connection and disconnection of the second discharge member from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member so that when the second discharge member fluid is permitted to pass through the third conduit when coupled to at least one of the body and first discharge member, and is prevented from passing fluid when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and first discharge member third conduit.

The valve may have a valve seat and the valve can be positioned in an open position, the valve seat is spaced from the third conduit to allow fluid to pass through the third conduit, and a closed position in the closed position. In the closed position, the valve seat contacts a surface of the flow controller surrounding the third conduit to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit.

The second discharge member may be operatively configured to transmit force to the valve and position the valve in the open position when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. Location.

The valve may have a valve head abutting the second discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member, and the second discharge member may be operably configured to transmit force to the The valve head of the valve.

The apparatus may further include elastic means operatively configured to elastically push the valve in the closed position and when the second discharge part is in contact with the main body and the first discharge part At least one disengages to position the valves in the closed position.

The resilient means may be operatively configured to contact a valve seat of the valve to resiliently urge the valve in the closed position.

The elastic means may comprise a spring.

The spring may comprise a conical disk spring.

The apparatus may further include a lock operatively configured to lock the second discharge member to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. on at least one of the first discharge components.

The device may also include a connector operably configured to connect the body with a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the fluid source.

Other aspects and features of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art by reading the following description of specific embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

In the drawings showing embodiments of the invention:

Figure 1 is a sectional view of a device for dispensing fluids according to a first embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the main body of the device of Figure 1,

Figure 3 is a first cross-sectional view of a first discharge component of the apparatus of Figure 1,

4 is a second sectional view of the first discharge member of FIG. 3 taken along the line IV-IV shown in FIG. 3 ,

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a second discharge component of the apparatus of Figure 1,

Figure 6 is a first perspective view of a first valve of the apparatus of Figure 1,

Figure 7 is a second perspective view of the valve of Figure 6,

Fig. 8 is a top view of the valve of Fig. 6,

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 1 with the second discharge member of Figure 5 separated from the main body of Figure 2,

Figure 10 is a first cross-sectional view of a device for dispensing fluids according to a second embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the main body of the device of Figure 10,

Figure 12 is a first cross-sectional view of a first discharge component of the apparatus of Figure 10,

13 is a second sectional view of the first discharge member of FIG. 12 taken along the line XIII-XIII shown in FIG. 12 ,

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a second discharge component of the apparatus of Figure 10,

Figure 15 is a second cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 10 taken along the line XV-XV shown in Figure 10, and

16 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 10 with the second discharge member of FIG. 14 separated from the main body of FIG. 11 .

Detailed ways

Referring to FIG. 1 , an apparatus for dispensing fluids according to a first embodiment of the invention is indicated in its entirety by the reference numeral 10 . Apparatus 10 includes a body 12 , a first discharge component 14 and a second discharge component 16 .

Referring to Figure 2, the body 12 has an opening 18 for receiving fluid. In the illustrated embodiment, body 12 defines internal threads 19 adjacent opening 18, and internal threads 19 may mate with external threads of a fluid source (not shown), such as a showerhead hose. Thus, the internal threads 19 act as a connector to connect the body 12 to a fluid source such that the opening 18 receives fluid from the fluid source.

The body 12 in the illustrated embodiment has an annular wall 21 with an inner surface 22 defining a generally cylindrical cavity 24 with an opening 25 . The wall 21 has an annular rim 27 surrounding the opening 25 . Conduit 26 is formed within body 12 and communicates with opening 18 and lumen 24 . Adjacent to opening 25 , inner surface 22 also defines an annular groove 30 for retaining an O-ring 32 . The inner surface 22 also has an end 34 that defines an annular recess 36 that communicates with the conduit 26 .

The wall 21 also has an outer surface 38 and a generally radial protrusion 40 . The protrusion 40 includes a pivot 42 for pivotally retaining a lock, which in the illustrated embodiment is a locking bar 44 . On one side of the pivot 42, the locking lever 44 has a retaining portion 48 with a retaining surface 50 facing and spaced from the rim 27 for holding the second discharge member 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ). Out) locked on the main body 12. On the opposite side of the pivot 42, the locking lever 44 also has a manipulating portion 52 for receiving a force to rotate the locking lever 44 about the pivot 42 so as to move the retaining surface 50 away from the second discharge member 16 in order to For the connection and separation of the second discharge member 16 and the main body 12 .

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first discharge member 14 includes a generally cylindrical bottom 54 . The base 54 has a generally circular end surface 58 and an opposing generally annular annulus 60 . The base 54 also defines axially and diametrically opposed first and second conduits 62 , 64 . First conduit 62 extends between opening 66 in end face 58 and opening 70 in annulus 60 , and second conduit 64 extends between opening 68 in end face 58 and opening 72 in annulus 60 .

The first discharge member 14 also includes an elongated protrusion 74 extending axially from the base 54 . The protrusion 74 has a fluid dispensing end generally indicated by the reference numeral 76 having openings defining outlets 78 , 80 and 82 . While three outlets 78, 80, and 82 are shown, in alternative embodiments, fluid dispensing end 76 may include one or more outlets. Projection 74 also defines a conduit 84 that communicates with an opening 86 in end face 58 and outlets 78 , 80 , and 82 . The first discharge component 14 also includes a fluid flow restrictor 88 retained by adhesive in the portion of the conduit 84 adjacent the opening 86 . Fluid flow restrictor 88 defines an aperture 90 that allows fluid to flow through conduit 84 at a restricted rate.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the second discharge member 16 includes an elongated protrusion 92 defining a conduit 94 therethrough. The protrusion 92 has a fluid dispensing end generally indicated by the reference numeral 96 having openings defining outlets 98 , 100 , 102 and 104 . While four outlets 98, 100, 102, and 104 are shown, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, fluid dispensing end 96 may include one or more outlets. Although the second discharge member 16 is shown as being integrally formed, the fluid dispensing end 96 may alternatively be detachable from the remainder of the protrusion 92 . Protrusion 92 has an annular end wall 106 defining an opening 108 with which conduit 94 communicates and outlets 98 , 100 , 102 and 104 . Protrusion 92 has an outer wall 110 defining an annular flange 112 having a shape for engaging retaining surface 50 (shown in FIG. 2 ) to lock second discharge member 16 to body 12 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ). Shown in Figure 2) on the retaining surface 114.

Returning to FIG. 1 , the apparatus 10 includes a first valve 116 and a second valve 118 located within the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 , respectively. Referring to FIGS. 6 , 7 and 8 , the first valve 116 includes a generally conical valve seat 120 having a circular end surface 122 and a valve stem 124 extending axially from the valve seat 120 opposite the end surface 122 . The valve stem 124 has a cylindrical outer wall 126 and a valve head 128 . The outer wall 126 defines generally radial protrusions 130 , 132 and 134 . The second valve 118 is substantially identical to the first valve 116 .

Returning to FIG. 1 , in the illustrated embodiment, the device 10 includes a conical disk spring 136 which bears against the end 34 of the inner surface 22 of the body 12 and extends into the annular recess 36 . The valve stem 124 of the first valve 116 is housed in the first conduit 62 such that the valve seat 120 is in contact with the surface of the bottom 54 around the opening 66 on the end face 58 of the first discharge member 14 and the valve head 128 emerges from the annulus 60 The opening 70 sticks out. Protrusions 130 , 132 and 134 (also shown in FIGS. 6 , 7 and 8 ) are in sliding contact with the inner wall of first conduit 62 so that stem 124 of first valve 116 is axially located in first conduit 62 . the central. The second valve 118 is similarly housed within the second conduit 64 .

The first discharge member 14 is attached to the main body 12 by securing a portion of the inner surface 22 of the main body 12 to the outer surface of the bottom 54 of the first discharge member 14 using, for example, an adhesive. In this way, the end face 122 of the first valve 116 is in contact with the spring 136 , as is the corresponding surface of the second valve 118 . In addition, the openings 66, 68 and 86 on the end surface 58 of the first discharge member 14 are received in the cavity 24 of the main body 12 communicating with the conduit 26 and the opening 18, so that the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 are in contact with the cavity 24, conduit 26 is in fluid communication with opening 18.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the second discharge member 16 is attached to the main body 12 by receiving a portion of the protrusion 92 of the second discharge member 16 within the cavity 24 of the main body 12 . The annular flange 112 is in contact with the main body 12 and the retaining face 114 of the second discharge member 16 is in contact with the retaining face 50 of the locking bar 44 . Thus, the locking lever 44 locks the second discharge member 16 to the main body 12 when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12 . In alternative embodiments, other mechanisms (e.g., twist locks, quick discharge or cam locks, or horseshoe retainers) may release the second discharge member 16 when it is attached to the main body 12. Part 16 is locked to body 12 .

Again as shown in Figure 1, when the second discharge part 16 was connected with the main body 12, the conduit 94 communicated with the openings 70 and 72 of the annulus 60 of the first discharge part 14, so that the conduit 94 communicated with the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 are connected. In addition, when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12, the conduit 94 communicates with the outlets 78, 80 and 82 of the first discharge member 14, and the O-ring 32 is in contact with the outer wall 110 of the second discharge member 16 so that the chamber 24 seal. Thus, when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12, at least some of the fluid contained in the conduit 84 of the first discharge member 14 is distributed into the conduit 94 of the second discharge member 16 so that the conduit of the second discharge member 16 94 receives at least some of the fluid contained in conduit 84 of first discharge member 14 .

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1 , when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12 , the end wall 106 of the second discharge member contacts the valve head 128 of the first valve 116 and corresponding surfaces of the second valve 118 . Accordingly, the valve head 128 of the first valve 116 and corresponding surfaces of the second valve 118 abut the second discharge member 16 when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the body 12 . When the second vent member 16 is connected to the body 12 , the second vent member 16 transmits force on the valve head 128 of the first valve 116 and on corresponding surfaces of the second valve 118 . This force causes the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 to be urged against the spring 136 . Accordingly, the valve seat 120 of the first valve 116 is positioned away from the opening 66 of the first discharge member 14 and the first valve 116 is in an open position allowing fluid to flow from the opening 18 through the first conduit 62 . Likewise, the second valve 118 is thus moved to the open position, allowing fluid to flow from the opening 18 through the second conduit 64 . Thus, when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the body 12, the end wall 106 of the second discharge member 16 positions the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 in respective open positions.

When the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12, the locking lever 44 may be urged in the locked position by, for example, a coil spring (not shown), whereby the retaining surface 50 of the locking rod 44 contacts the retaining surface 114 of the second discharge member 16 , so that the second discharge member 16 is locked on the main body 12 . By manipulating the operating portion 52 of the locking lever 44, the retaining surface 50 of the locking lever 44 is separated from the retaining surface 114 of the second discharge member 16, and the second discharge member 16 can be removed from the cavity 24 of the main body 12, thereby being separated from the main body 12. .

Referring to FIG. 9 , the apparatus 10 is shown in which the second discharge member 16 is separate from the main body 12 . When the second discharge member 16 is separated from the body 12 , the end wall 106 of the second discharge member is no longer in contact with the valve head 128 of the first valve 116 or the corresponding surface of the second valve 118 . The spring 136 is in contact with the end face 122 of the first valve 116 and a corresponding surface of the second valve 118 . Therefore, the spring 136 elastically pushes the end surface 122 of the valve seat 120 of the first valve 116 on the part of the end surface 58 of the first discharge member 14 around the opening 66, and elastically pushes the corresponding part of the second valve 118 on the second side. On the opening 68 of a discharge member 14 . Therefore, when the second discharge member 16 is separated from the main body 12, the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 are elastically urged in the closed position closing the openings 66 and 68, thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 62, respectively. Conduit 64. Thus, when the second discharge member 16 is separated from the body 12, the spring 136 acts as a resilient means for positioning the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 in respective closed positions.

Returning to FIG. 1 , in operation, body 12 is connected to a fluid source (not shown) such that opening 18 receives fluid from the fluid source. When the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12, the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 are positioned in respective open positions. Accordingly, fluid received through the opening 18 of the body 12 may pass through the conduit 26 into the cavity 24 , through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 , and then to the conduit 94 of the second discharge member 16 . At the same time, when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12, the fluid received through the opening 18 of the main body 12 can enter the cavity 24 through the conduit 26, and then enter the conduit 84 of the first discharge member 14 through the hole 90 of the fluid flow restrictor 88 , and then flow out from the outlets 78 , 80 and 82 of the first discharge part 14 , and then reach the conduit 94 of the second discharge part 16 . Fluid contained in conduit 94 of second discharge component 16 (which, as described above, may be received from first conduit 62, second conduit 64, or conduit 84 of first discharge component 14) passes through outlets 98, 100, 102 and 104 is discharged from the second discharge part 16 . Thus, some of the fluid received at the opening 18 is dispensed into the conduit 84 of the first discharge member 14 and, when the user connects the second discharge member 16 to the main body 12, some of the fluid received at the opening 18 is thereby Selectively distributed through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 into the conduit 94 of the second discharge member 16 . In some embodiments, for example, a user may connect the second discharge member 16 to the main body 12 for normal showering use.

Alternatively, the user may manipulate the manipulation portion 52 to separate the second discharge member 16 from the main body 12 . When the second discharge member 16 is separated from the body 12 , the spring 136 positions the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 in respective closed positions, thereby preventing fluid received through the opening 18 from passing through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 . Accordingly, fluid received through opening 18 may enter cavity 24 through conduit 26 , pass through aperture 90 of fluid flow restrictor 88 , pass through conduit 84 of first discharge member 14 , and exit outlets 78 , 80 and 82 thereof. However, when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12 , additional fluid flows through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 . Thus, fluid is expelled from the device 10 at a greater flow rate when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the body 12 and is expelled from the device 10 at a lower flow rate when the second discharge member 16 is separated from the body 12 .

Accordingly, the first valve 116 and the second valve 118 cooperate with the first discharge member 14 to function as a flow controller by selectively controlling the flow of fluid through the The flow of the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 thereby selectively distributes at least some of the fluid received at the opening 18 into the conduit 94 of the second discharge member 16 such that when the second discharge member 16 is connected to the main body 12 , allowing fluid to pass through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 , while preventing fluid from passing through the first conduit 62 and the second conduit 64 when the second discharge member 16 is separated from the main body 12 . Whether or not second discharge member 16 is attached to body 12 , body 12 and first discharge member 14 act as a fluid distributor that distributes at least some of the fluid received at opening 18 into conduit 84 of first discharge member 14 .

The fluid dispensing end 76 of the first discharge member 14 is smaller than the fluid dispensing end 96 of the second discharge member 16, so that in the mode of operation shown in FIG. Indicated reduced fluid volume. The mode of operation shown in Fig. 1 may for example be suitable for general cleaning, whereas the mode of operation shown in Fig. 9 may be suitable for specific applications such as internal cleaning also known as douching. The device 10 can thus be used, for example, as a shower head for cleaning and hygiene.

Referring to FIG. 10 , an apparatus for dispensing fluids according to a second embodiment of the invention is generally indicated by the reference numeral 140 . Apparatus 140 includes a body 142 , a first discharge member 144 and a second discharge member 146 .

Referring to FIG. 11 , the body 142 in the illustrated embodiment includes a generally annular wall having a first annular end surface 148 and a second annular end surface 150 . End faces 148 and 150 have openings 152 and 154 , respectively, and body 142 has a conduit 156 extending between openings 152 and 154 . The body 142 defines internal threads 157 adjacent the opening 152 . Internal threads 157 may mate with external threads of a fluid source (not shown), such as a showerhead hose, whereby internal threads 157 serve as a connector for connecting body 142 to the fluid source such that opening 152 receives fluid from the fluid source. .

Referring to FIG. 12 , the first discharge member 144 includes a generally cylindrical base generally indicated by reference numeral 164 and a protrusion 166 extending axially from the base 164 . The bottom 164 includes an annular wall 168 having an inner surface 170 defining a cavity 172 . The annular wall 168 also includes an annular end face 176 and the bottom 164 has a circular end face 178 adjoining the cavity 172 . End face 178 has a central opening 180 in communication with cavity 172 and diametrically opposed openings 182 and 184 .

The base 164 also has a generally cylindrical portion 186 with an outer surface 188 and a generally annular end surface 190 . Outer surface 188 defines an annular groove 192 for retaining an O-ring 194 , and end face 190 has openings 196 and 198 axially aligned with openings 182 and 184 of end face 178 , respectively.

12 and 13, the generally cylindrical portion 186 of the base 164 defines a conduit 200 communicating with the opening 180 of the end face 178, a conduit 202 communicating with the openings 182 and 196 of the end faces 178 and 190, respectively, and a conduit 202 communicating with the opening 180 of the end face 178 and 190, respectively, and a conduit 202 communicating with the end face 178, respectively. Conduit 204 communicates with openings 184 and 198 of 190 .

Returning to FIG. 12 , the first drain member 144 also has a fluid flow restrictor 206 in the portion of the conduit 200 near the opening 180 . Fluid flow restrictor 206 defines an aperture 208 that allows fluid to flow through conduit 200 at a restricted rate.

The protrusion 166 has a fluid dispensing end generally indicated by the reference numeral 210 having openings defining outlets 212 , 214 and 216 . Although three outlets 212, 214, and 216 are shown, in alternative embodiments, fluid dispensing end 210 may include one or more outlets. Protrusion 166 also defines a conduit 218 that communicates with conduit 200 , opening 180 , and outlets 212 , 214 , and 216 .

Referring to FIG. 14 , second discharge member 146 has a generally annular wall 220 , a generally annular end wall 222 adjacent wall 220 , and an elongated protrusion 224 axially projecting opposite wall 220 and away from end wall 222 . Wall 220 has a cylindrical inner surface 226 and a generally annular rim 228 . The wall 220 also has a generally radial protrusion 230 having a pivot 234 for pivotally retaining the lock, which in the illustrated embodiment is a locking bar 236 . On one side of the pivot 234, the locking lever 236 has a retaining portion 238 with a retaining surface 240 facing and spaced from the rim 228 for locking the second discharge member 146 to the first discharge member. 144 (shown in Figures 10, 12 and 13). On the opposite side of the pivot 234, the locking lever 236 also has an operating portion 242 for receiving a force to rotate the locking lever 236 about the pivot 234, thereby moving the retaining surface 240 away from the first discharge member 144 so that The second discharge part 146 is connected and separated from the first discharge part 144 .

End wall 222 has an inner surface 243 , and inner surfaces 226 and 243 define a generally cylindrical cavity 244 .

The protrusion 224 has a fluid dispensing end generally indicated by the reference numeral 246 having openings defining outlets 248 , 250 and 252 . Although three outlets 248, 250, and 252 are shown, in alternative embodiments, fluid dispensing end 246 may include one or more outlets. Although the second discharge member 146 is shown as being integrally formed, the fluid dispensing end 246 may alternatively be detachable from the remainder of the protrusion 224 . Protrusion 224 also defines a conduit 254 that communicates with cavity 244 and outlets 248 , 250 , and 252 .

15, the cylindrical portion 186 of the first discharge member 144 has diametrically oppositely extending generally cylindrical cavities 270 and 272 for holding respective coil springs 274 and 276 and corresponding locks, in the embodiment shown. The middle lock is a slidable body 278 and 280 having respective retaining portions 282 and 284 and a respective annular wall 286 and 288 defining respective receptacles 290 and 292 accommodating coil springs 274 and 276 respectively. The diameter of retaining portions 282 and 284 is smaller than the diameter of walls 286 and 288, so that walls 286 and 288 are held behind shoulders 294 and 296 formed by cylindrical portion 186, respectively, so that shoulders 294 and 296 hold slidable body 278 respectively and 280 are held in cavities 270 and 272. The wall 220 of the second discharge member 146 defines diametrically opposed openings 298 and 300 for receiving the retainers 282 and 284 , respectively. When the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144 as shown in FIG. 10, the retaining portions 282 and 284 are received in the openings 298 and 300, respectively, and thus cooperate with the locking bar 236 (shown in FIG. 10 ). , so as to lock the second discharge part 146 on the first discharge part 144 when the second discharge part 146 is connected with the first discharge part 144 . Alternatively, one or more of locking bar 236 and slidable bodies 278 and 280 may be omitted.

Returning to FIG. 10 , apparatus 140 includes a first valve 256 located in conduit 202 and a second valve 258 located in conduit 204 . The first valve 256 and the second valve 258 are substantially the same as the first valve 116 shown in FIGS. 6 , 7 and 8 . Accordingly, the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 have substantially the same valve seats 260 and 262 as the valve seat 120 shown in FIGS. Valve head 128 is substantially identical to valve heads 264 and 266 . Similar to first valve 116 in conduit 62 (shown in FIG. 1 ), first valve 256 and second valve 258 are housed in conduits 202 and 204, respectively. Accordingly, the valve seats 260 and 262 of the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 respectively abut corresponding openings 182 and 184 of the first discharge member 144 . The device 140 also includes a conical disc spring 268 that bears against the end face 150 of the body 142 .

First vent member 144 is attached to body 142 by securing a portion of inner surface 170 of first vent member 144 to a portion of outer surface 158 of body 142 using, for example, an adhesive. In this manner, the valve seats 260 and 262 of the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 respectively contact the spring 268 . Additionally, the opening 154 of the body 142 is received within the cavity 172 of the first discharge member 144 such that the conduits 202 and 204 communicate with the conduit 156 and the opening 152 of the body 142 .

As shown in FIG. 10 , by receiving the protrusion 166 of the first discharge member 144 in the conduit 254 of the second discharge member 146 and receiving the cylindrical portion 186 of the first discharge member 144 in the cavity 244 of the second discharge member 146 (shown in FIG. 14 ), the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144 . The O-ring 194 is in slidable contact with the inner surface 226 of the second discharge member 146 and the end face 190 of the first discharge member 144 is in contact with the inner surface 243 of the second discharge member 146 .

In addition, the retaining surface 240 of the locking rod 236 is in contact with the end face 176 of the first discharge member 144, so that when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, the locking rod 236 locks the second discharge member 146 in the first position. On the discharge part 144. Referring to FIG. 15 , retainers 282 and 284 are simultaneously received in openings 298 and 300 , respectively, thereby also locking second discharge member 146 to first discharge member 144 when second discharge member 146 is connected to first discharge member 144 . In alternative embodiments, other mechanisms (e.g., twist locks, quick discharge or cam locks, or horseshoe retainers) may attach the second discharge member 146 to the first discharge member 144. The second discharge member 146 is locked to the first discharge member 144 .

Returning to FIG. 10 , when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144 , the conduit 254 of the second discharge member 146 communicates with the openings 196 and 198 of the first discharge member 144 and thus communicates with the conduits 202 and 204 . In addition, as shown in Figure 10, when the second discharge part 146 is connected with the first discharge part 144, the conduit 254 of the second discharge part 146 communicates with the outlets 212, 214 and 216 of the first discharge part 144, therefore, when the second discharge part 146 When the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, at least some of the fluid contained in the conduit 218 of the first discharge member 144 is distributed to the conduit 254 of the second discharge member 146, so that the conduit 254 of the second discharge member 146 At least some of the fluid contained in the conduit 218 of the first discharge member 144 is received.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 10, when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, the inner surface 243 of the second discharge member 146 is in contact with the valve heads 264 and 266 of the first valve 256 and the second valve 258, respectively. , and thus, the valve heads 264 and 266 abut the second discharge member 146 when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144 . When the second bleed member 146 is coupled with the first bleed member 144 , the second bleed member 146 transmits force on the valve heads 264 and 266 . This force causes the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 to be urged against the spring 268 . Accordingly, valve seats 260 and 262 are positioned away from openings 182 and 184 of first discharge member 144, whereby first valve 256 and second valve 258 are moved to respective open positions allowing fluid to flow from opening 152 through conduits 202 and 204, respectively. . Thus, when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, the inner surface 243 of the end wall 222 of the second discharge member 146 positions the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 in respective open positions.

10 and 15, when the second discharge member 146 is connected with the first discharge member 144, the lock bar 236 can be pushed in the locked position by, for example, a coil spring (not shown), whereby the retaining surface 240 of the lock bar 236 is in contact with the first discharge member 144. The end face 176 of the first discharge member 144 contacts, thereby locking the second discharge member 146 to the first discharge member 144 . By manipulating the manipulation portion 242 of the lock lever 236 , the holding surface 240 of the lock lever 236 is separated from the end surface 176 of the first discharge member 144 . Simultaneously, the holding parts 282 and 284 may be pushed inward and separated from the openings 298 and 300 of the second discharge member 146 . The second discharge member 146 may be separated from the first discharge member 144 when the retaining face 240 of the locking bar 236 is separated from the end face 176 and the retaining portions 282 and 284 are separated from the openings 298 and 300 .

Referring to FIG. 16 , an apparatus 140 is shown in which the second discharge member 146 is separate from the first discharge member 144 . When the second discharge member 146 is separated from the first discharge member 144, the inner surface 243 of the second discharge member 146 (shown in FIG. 266 contacts. The spring 268 is in contact with the valve seats 260 and 262 of the first valve 256 and the second valve 258, respectively, thereby elastically pushing the valve seats 260 and 262 respectively on corresponding surface portions of the first discharge member 144 surrounding the openings 182 and 184. . Accordingly, when the second discharge member 146 is separated from the first discharge member 144, the spring 268 elastically pushes the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 in a closed position closing the openings 182 and 184, thereby preventing fluid flow through the conduit 202, respectively. and 204. Thus, when the second discharge member 146 is separated from the first discharge member 144, the spring 268 acts as a resilient means for positioning the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 in respective closed positions.

Referring back to Figure 10, in operation, body 142 is connected to a fluid source (not shown) such that opening 152 receives fluid from the fluid source. When the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 are positioned in respective open positions. Accordingly, fluid received through opening 152 of body 142 may pass through conduit 156 into cavity 172 , through conduits 202 and 204 , and then to conduit 254 of second discharge member 146 . At the same time, when the second discharge member 146 is connected to the first discharge member 144, the fluid received through the opening 152 of the main body 142 can enter the chamber 172 through the conduit 156, and then enter the first discharge member 144 through the hole 208 of the fluid flow restrictor 206. The conduits 200 and 218 of the first discharge part 144 flow out from the outlets 212 , 214 and 216 of the first discharge part 144 , and then reach the conduit 254 of the second discharge part 146 . Fluid contained in conduit 254 of second discharge component 146 (which, as described above, may be received from conduit 202 , conduit 204 , or conduits 200 and 218 of first discharge component 144 ) passes through outlets 248 , 250 and 252 from the second The discharge part 146 discharges. Accordingly, some of the fluid received at opening 152 is distributed into conduits 200 and 218 of first discharge member 144 , and when the user connects second discharge member 146 to first discharge member 144 , some of the fluid received at opening 152 Further fluid is thereby selectively dispensed into conduit 254 of second discharge member 146 . In some embodiments, for example, a user may connect the second discharge member 146 to the first discharge member 144 for normal shower use.

Alternatively, the user may manipulate the manipulating portion 242 and the retaining portions 282 and 284 (shown in FIG. 15 ) to separate the second discharge member 146 from the first discharge member 144 . When second discharge member 146 is separated from first discharge member 144 , spring 268 positions first valve 256 and second valve 258 in respective closed positions, thereby preventing fluid received through opening 152 from passing conduits 202 and 204 . Accordingly, fluid received through opening 152 may enter chamber 172 through conduit 156 , pass through aperture 208 of fluid flow restrictor 206 , pass through conduits 200 and 218 of first discharge member 144 , and exit outlets 212 , 214 and 216 thereof. However, when second discharge member 146 is connected to first discharge member 144, additional fluid flows through conduits 202 and 204, and at a greater rate than when second discharge member 146 is disconnected from first discharge member 144. The flow rate is discharged from the device 140.

Accordingly, the first valve 256 and the second valve 258 cooperate with the first discharge member 144 to function as a flow controller by selectively Controlling the flow of fluid through conduits 202 and 204 to selectively distribute at least some of the fluid received at opening 152 into conduit 254 of second discharge member 146 such that when second discharge member 146 is connected to first discharge member 144 When , fluid is allowed to pass through conduits 202 and 204 , and when second discharge member 146 is separated from first discharge member 144 , fluid is prevented from passing through conduits 202 and 204 . Regardless of whether second discharge member 146 is connected to first discharge member 144 , body 142 and first discharge member 144 function to distribute at least some of the fluid received at opening 152 into conduits 200 and 218 of first discharge member 144 fluid dispenser.

As in the apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1, the fluid dispensing end 210 of the first discharge member 144 is smaller than the fluid dispensing end 246 of the second discharge member 146, so that in the mode of operation shown in FIG. 16, the user advantageously has Reduced fluid discharge area and reduced fluid volume. The mode of operation shown in Fig. 10 may for example be suitable for general cleaning, whereas the mode of operation shown in Fig. 16 may be suitable for specific applications such as internal cleaning also known as douching. The device 140 can thus be used, for example, as a shower head for cleaning and hygiene.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described and shown, these embodiments should be considered as illustrative of the invention only and not as limitations of the invention as construed in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims (24)

1. A method for dispensing a fluid, the method comprising: receiving fluid in the opening of the body; distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into a first conduit in communication with a first outlet of a first discharge member connected to the body; and selectively distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into a second conduit connected to a second outlet of a second discharge member connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member connected; wherein selectively distributing at least some of the fluid received in the opening into the second conduit comprises controlling fluid flow through the first discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. flow of three conduits, the third conduit communicating with the opening and communicating with the second conduit, the passage of fluid through the third conduit is controlled in accordance with the connection and disconnection of the second discharge member to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member so that when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, fluid is allowed to pass through the third conduit, and when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit when at least one is separated; and At least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit is dispensed into the second conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling the flow of fluid through the third conduit comprises: When the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, the valve is positioned in an open position in which the valve seat of the valve is spaced from the third conduit to allow the fluid passes through the third conduit; and When the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and the first discharge member, the valve is positioned in a closed position in which the valve seat is in contact with a surface surrounding the third conduit to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein positioning the valve in the open position includes transmitting a force from the second discharge member to the valve. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein transmitting force from the second vent member to the valve comprises: when the second vent member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first vent member, applying force to the valve. A force is transmitted from the second discharge member to a valve head of the valve adjoining the second discharge member. 5. A method as claimed in claim 2 or 3 or 4, wherein positioning the valve in the closed position comprises resiliently pushing the valve seat against a surface surrounding the third conduit. 6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising: locking the second discharge member in the position when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. on at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. 7. The method of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising connecting the body to a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the fluid source. 8. An apparatus for dispensing fluid, said apparatus comprising: a body having an opening for receiving fluid; a first discharge member connected to the main body and having a first outlet and a first conduit communicating with the first outlet; means for distributing at least some of the fluid received in said opening into the first conduit; a second discharge member connectable to and detachable from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, and having a second outlet and a second conduit communicating with the second outlet; means for selectively controlling the flow of at least some of the fluid received in said opening to a second conduit, said means for selectively controlling flow comprising a third conduit, when the second discharge member is associated with said When the main body and at least one of the first discharge part are connected, the third conduit communicates with the opening and communicates with the second conduit, according to the connection of the second discharge part with the at least one of the main body and the first discharge part and separately to control the flow of fluid through the third conduit, so that when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, fluid is allowed to pass through the third conduit, and when the second discharge member is connected to the first discharge member. preventing fluid from passing through the third conduit when at least one of the body and the first discharge member are separated; and Means for dispensing at least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit into the second conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said means for selectively controlling further comprises: A valve having a valve seat and positionable in an open position in which the valve seat is spaced from the third conduit to allow fluid to pass through the third conduit and in a closed position in the closed position , the valve seat is in contact with a surface around the third conduit to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit; means for positioning said valve in said open position when a second discharge member is connected to at least one of said body and first discharge member; and means for positioning the valve in the closed position when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said means for positioning said valve in said open position comprises means for transmitting force from a second discharge member to said valve. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein: the valve has a valve head abutting the second discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, and The means for transmitting force from the second discharge member to the valve comprises: means for transmitting force from the second discharge member to the valve head of the valve. 12. Apparatus according to claim 9 or 10 or 11, wherein said means for positioning said valve in said closed position comprises: for urging said valve seat resiliently against a third conduit means on the surrounding surface and for positioning the valve in the closed position when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 13. Apparatus according to any one of claims 8-12, further comprising means for locking the second discharge member when connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member means on at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 14. Apparatus according to any one of claims 8-13, further comprising means for connecting the body to a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the fluid source. 15. An apparatus for dispensing fluid, said apparatus comprising: a body having an opening for receiving fluid; a first discharge member connected to the main body and having a first outlet and a first conduit communicating with the first outlet; a fluid dispenser operably configured to dispense at least some of the fluid received in the opening into the first conduit; a second discharge member connectable to and detachable from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member and having a second outlet and a second conduit communicating with the second outlet, wherein the second discharge member is operatively configured to receive at least some of the fluid contained in the first conduit when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member; and a flow controller that selectively controls flow of at least some of the fluid received in the opening to a second conduit, the flow controller defining a third conduit when the second discharge member is in contact with the body When connected to at least one of the first discharge components, a third conduit communicates with the opening and communicates with the second conduit, and the flow controller includes a valve that cooperates with the third conduit and operates according to the second discharge component. connection and disconnection to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member is controlled such that fluid is allowed to pass through the third discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. The conduit prevents fluid from passing through the third conduit when the second discharge member is separated from at least one of the main body and the first discharge member. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein: the valve has a valve seat, and The valve is positionable in an open position, in which the valve seat is spaced from the third conduit to allow fluid to pass through the third conduit, and in a closed position, in which the valve seat is spaced from the third conduit. Surfaces of the flow controller around the third conduit contact to prevent fluid from passing through the third conduit. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the second discharge member is operatively configured to transmit force to the first discharge member when connected to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. and positioning the valve in the open position. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the valve has a valve head abutting the second discharge member when the second discharge member is connected to at least one of the main body and the first discharge member, and a second The discharge member is operatively configured to transmit force to the valve head of the valve. 19. Apparatus according to claim 16 or 17 or 18, further comprising: resilient means, said resilient means being operatively configured to: resiliently push said valve in said closed position, and when the second discharge member The valve is positioned in the closed position when separated from at least one of the body and first discharge member. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the resilient means is operatively configured to contact a valve seat of the valve to resiliently urge the valve in the closed position. 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the resilient means comprises a spring. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the spring comprises a conical disk spring. 23. Apparatus according to any one of claims 15-22, further comprising a lock operably configured to engage at least one of the body and the first discharge member when the second discharge member is When connected, the second discharge member is locked to at least one of the body and the first discharge member. 24. The apparatus of any one of claims 15-23, further comprising a connector operatively configured to: connect the body to a fluid source such that the opening receives fluid from the The fluid of the fluid source.

Images